If you are planning any construction activity within the City of Burlington’s right-of-way or other City property, you must apply for a Municipal Consent Permit before starting any work.
Construction and occupation of the right-of-way or other City property is permitted and enforced in accordance with the City’s Municipal Consent By-Law 065-2021 and the Municipal Consent Manual.
A separate Road Occupancy Permit from Transportation Services is not required when a Municipal Consent Permit has been issued.
Apply for a Municipal Consent Permit
What are rights-of-way and other City property?
A right-of-way is the entirety of a road owned by the City and includes the travelled portion of the road, the sidewalk, the boulevard and the median.
Other City property is any other land owned or managed by the City and includes parks, parking lots and other City facilities.
When do you need a permit?
You need a Municipal Consent Permit for any construction or occupation of the right-of-way or other City property, including:
- Excavation
- Boreholes and monitoring wells
- Utility service connections
- Scaffolding or overhead protection
- Temporary lane closures or obstructions
- Any work that impacts public access or City infrastructure
Why are permits required?
Permits ensure that:
- Work meets City standards and by-laws
- Public spaces remain safe and accessible
- Impacts to traffic, pedestrians, and nearby properties are minimized
- City infrastructure is protected
- Work areas are properly restored after completion of the work
Fees and deposits
Fees are set out in the City’s Rates and Fees By-law. A security deposit is required based on restoration costs for the work area.
By-laws and other requirements
All work must comply with:
What to expect
- Submit your application online
- City staff reviews your submission
- You may be asked to provide additional information
- Once your permit is issued, you can begin work
- The work area must be restored to City standards after completion of the work
Need help?
If you are unsure whether your work requires a permit, contact engpermitrequests@burlington.ca before applying.